You know how sometimes you go into a trip expecting one thing and end up having your mind blown? That was me with Porto. Honestly, I had no clear expectations—just a vague notion that it'd be a nice European city with cobblestone streets and maybe a good meal or two. But boy, did it turn out to be so much more! I can't wait to share what I found—these are some of the best things to do in Porto, though it didn't always feel like it at the time.
This spot? Total surprise.
So, I arrived in Porto and my initial plan was to hit all the ‘must-see' spots. But, you know me—I got distracted. On my second day, I wandered into this little side street called Rua das Flores. No guidebook recommendations, nothing that screamed ‘tourist hotspot.' Just a narrow alleyway lined with quaint shops and tiny cafés. I almost walked past, but a cute little bookshop caught my eye. Literally, I stood there, staring at the hand-painted sign, feeling this weird pull.
Here's where it gets funny. I stepped in, and the shop owner—an elderly lady who looked like a whimsical character from a storybook—was chatting animatedly with a couple of locals. I didn't plan on spending more than a few minutes, but as I browsed, I ended up bonding over our love of books, old ones in particular. Who knows how long I was in there? It was one of those places where time just slips away. I came out with a dusty, leather-bound edition of some obscure poetry collection, and I don't even read poetry! But it felt so right at that moment, and my heart swelled with that sort of happy surprise that you only get while traveling.
The afternoon that changed my whole mood
And then there was the sunny afternoon where I was just… wandering aimlessly around the riverfront. I was trying to find the famous Livraria Lello, which everyone raved about. But silly me—my sense of direction led me to the wrong side of the Douro River. At first, I was a little bummed—like, “Great job, genius! You're just wandering around instead of being where the action is.” But then I stumbled onto this lovely spot called the Jardim do Morro. This park kind of hugs the hilltop across from the city, and honestly, I wasn't expecting much at first glance. But once I settled on a bench, sipping a glass of port wine (yes, I'm basic but who cares), I just soaked it all in.
The view was one of those postcard-perfect scenes, with the sun dancing on the water and the historic buildings of Porto reflecting on the river like something out of a dream. And there—right next to me—were these local musicians, just a couple of guys with guitars playing some folk tunes. I remember closing my eyes and letting the music wash over me, feeling silly for almost getting upset earlier about “missing out.” That moment right there changed my entire mood. It was like I'd stepped out of my hectic travel checklist and into a scene of pure enjoyment—which, let's be real, is the best part of the journey, isn't it?
I almost missed this, no thanks to my bad sense of direction
Speaking of directions, I have this knack for taking the wrong turns—culminating in what I now refer to as the “Penny Lane” incident. I was trying to find my way to the famous Mercado do Bolhão for that fresh local vibe everyone talks about, but my phone had other ideas. I ended up lost in a neighborhood that was so off the beaten path I felt like I was in another city.
Instead of panicking, I decided to just walk around. I stumbled upon the most bizarre art installation that I never even knew existed. It was a tiny gallery, practically hidden, showcasing local artists and their unique takes on Porto life. The art pieces were colorful and, honestly, kind of strange, but also deeply moving. I spent a good chunk of time chatting with the owner, who poured his heart into explaining each piece and the stories behind them.
Had I not gotten lost, I never would've found this little treasure. It was unplanned and beautiful; it felt like being taken off the tourist path into something genuine. Now, Bolhão? I went there, too, and yes, it was nice, but I'll always remember that weird little gallery and the artist's passionate storytelling more than any filled market stall.
An unforgettable meal
Food in Porto was another revelation—Oh! Let me tell you about this meal that I had at a small taverna tucked away in a back alley. I remember it was the most unassuming place; you could easily walk past and never think twice. I sat down, a little hesitant, mostly due to the fact that I was still stuffed from an earlier pastry binge. But the smell of grilled fish wafting through the air drew me in like a moth to a flame. I ordered the grilled sardines, thinking “Well, why not?”
When the dish arrived, I was shocked that such simplicity could bring so much joy. The fish was tender, perfectly seasoned, and came with a side of roasted potatoes that were crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside—oh my god! The flavors! And somehow, that little meal tasted like home but also like a celebration. As I savored every bite, I was smiling at strangers, chatting with my neighbor, who was also eating sardines. It felt like the kind of experience you see in movies, where food brings people together.
Reflecting on it all
It's funny how the best experiences often come from a mix of planning and happy accidents. I left Porto with a bit of my heart tangled up in its streets, with its unexpected art, the taste of fresh sardines, and that surreal afternoon at Jardim do Morro. Some of the best things to do in Porto turned out to be the simplest, the things I didn't seek nor expect.
So, sit back and don't sweat the itinerary too much if you ever find yourself in Porto. Let the streets lead you, even if they twist and turn in ways you didn't foresee. That's where you'll find the real magic. As I sip my coffee now and recall my trip, I feel that warmth again—the kind you can only find when you've truly explored, even if it meant taking the wrong path sometimes.
